Title
Consider approving Resolution No. 2026-038, reaffirming the City’s authorization of the purchase of signal head replacement materials from Consolidated Traffic Controls, Inc., in the amount of $82,502; and take appropriate action.
Body
REQUESTOR:
Public Works Department
BACKGROUND:
The City of Farmers Branch prioritizes the safety of its residents, visitors, and motorists by investing in the maintenance and upkeep of critical infrastructure that supports traffic safety and control throughout the community. Routine replacement of signal heads is necessary to ensure the continued reliability and visibility of traffic control devices. Proactive maintenance helps ensure safe, efficient traffic operations, reduces the likelihood of equipment failure, and minimizes the need for costly emergency repairs. This investment supports the City’s commitment to maintaining critical transportation infrastructure and promoting public safety for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists.
The City currently maintains 60 signalized intersections throughout the community. Each intersection comprises numerous components that collectively form the traffic signal system, including poles, signal heads, detection devices, pedestrian push buttons, cabinets, and other supporting equipment. Proper maintenance and periodic replacement of these components are necessary to ensure reliable operation and maintain safe traffic control.
Traffic signal heads have an average operational lifespan of approximately 10 to 15 years, depending on environmental conditions and usage. As these components age, they may experience reduced visibility, deterioration of housing or lenses, or electrical failure, which can impact the effectiveness and reliability of the signal system.
In August of 2024, Council approved Resolution No. 2024-125, authorizing an agreement with Bean Electrical, LLC for traffic signal replacement services, under which the contractor performs installation and replacement work while the City remains responsible for the purchase of signal materials and equipment. Approximately 90 percent of the signal heads currently installed throughout the City are Swarco McCain products. Because signal head components are not interchangeable between manufacturers, maintaining compatibility with the existing infrastructure is essential. For this reason, it is in the City’s best interest to continue purchasing materials from Consolidated Traffic Controls, the sole and exclusive distributor of Swarco McCain products.
DISCUSSION:
In 2026, Bean Electrical, LLC will replace signal heads at the following intersections as part of the City’s ongoing signal maintenance and replacement practice:
• Inwood Road and Langland Road
• Inwood Road and Spring Valley Road
• Marsh Lane and Pebble Beach Drive
• Marsh Lane and Spring Valley Road
• Marsh Lane and Brookhaven Club Drive
• Valley View Lane and Mercer Parkway
• Webb Chapel Road and Fyke Road
• Webb Chapel Road and Valwood Parkway
Following repair or replacement, the upgraded signal heads are expected to provide a service life of approximately 10 years, supporting the continued reliability and safety of the City’s traffic signal infrastructure.
Although the purchase amount for signal head replacement materials falls within the approval authority of City Management, the purchase requires reaffirmation by the City Council.
Resolution No. 2026-038 reaffirms the authorization for the purchase of signal head replacement materials in the amount of $82,502. These materials will support the City’s ongoing traffic signal maintenance program and will be used to replace aging and deteriorating signal heads throughout the City’s traffic signal system, helping to maintain reliable operation and enhance traffic safety at signalized intersections.
Staff will be available to answer any questions the City Council may have.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Budgeted amount of $82,502 approved as part of FY 2025-26.
DISTRICT:
Citywide
POSSIBLE COUNCIL ACTION:
1. I move to approve Resolution No. 2026-038 as presented.
2. I move to approve Resolution No. 2026-038, with modifications.
3. I move to table the issue for further study or take no action.
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Resolution No. 2026-038
2. Quote
3. Sole Source Letter
4. Resolution No. 2024-125
5. Bean Electrical, LLC Agreement